tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38723186471896781642024-03-13T02:22:30.512+00:00House of Marmaladesewing blog inspired by
vintage fashionJuliaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08796157310429701087noreply@blogger.comBlogger415125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3872318647189678164.post-46134305390686210712014-05-11T16:08:00.000+01:002014-05-11T16:08:14.469+01:00Bobbinet and dress foundationsI've been researching the fabric known as Bobbinet as i've started to stock it in the shop. It's a fascinating fabric, not just any old tulle but special tulle which is woven in a particular way to make it strong enough for corsetted dress foundations whilst remaining beautifully light and bulk free.<br />
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Read all about it here: </div>
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<a href="http://www.sewcurvy.com/sewcurvyblog/read_105412/bobbinet-what-is-it-and-what-is-it-for.html">Bobbinet - what is it and what is it for?</a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A48qEtmVqYQ/U2-SPUZe44I/AAAAAAAAHE4/wjdulS2P7l0/s1600/swisstulle+bobbinet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A48qEtmVqYQ/U2-SPUZe44I/AAAAAAAAHE4/wjdulS2P7l0/s1600/swisstulle+bobbinet.jpg" height="128" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for visiting The House of Marmalade.
Your presence is very much appreciated.</div>JuliaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08796157310429701087noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3872318647189678164.post-4707432904417456542013-12-09T09:50:00.002+00:002013-12-09T09:50:19.450+00:00Making bags for better corset makingFeeling quite accomplished today having written a blog post over at Sew Curvy and thought it a good idea to flag these posts up over here so that you don't miss them!<br />
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Here's a blog post on how making bags improved not only my sewing skills but my corset making skills no end.<br />
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Click <a href="http://www.sewcurvy.com/sewcurvyblog/read_91109/making-bags-can-improve-your-corset-making.html">HERE</a>.</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9Ed_gmCzg_c/UqWSOhOHUPI/AAAAAAAAHDI/8AJqqZaVhP4/s1600/bags1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9Ed_gmCzg_c/UqWSOhOHUPI/AAAAAAAAHDI/8AJqqZaVhP4/s320/bags1.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for visiting The House of Marmalade.
Your presence is very much appreciated.</div>JuliaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08796157310429701087noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3872318647189678164.post-49948730230386770002013-10-02T12:19:00.000+01:002013-10-02T12:19:09.042+01:00MovingI've started a blog over at my website which is more relevant to my current work.<br />
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I'll still pop in here now and again, and ofcourse you will still be able to access my most popular posts which are all linked from this page, either through the 'most popular posts' bar on the left, or through the tabbed headings below the main header at the top.<br />
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I do hope you enjoy my blogging adventures over at Sew Curvy.<br />
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Click <a href="http://www.sewcurvy.com/sewcurvyblog/">HERE</a> to go <a href="http://www.sewcurvy.com/sewcurvyblog/">THERE</a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I8jEHXc5G64/UkwBFK7HcBI/AAAAAAAAG_4/hhyNqwuB9SE/s1600/Screen+shot+2013-10-02+at+12.18.07.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="161" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I8jEHXc5G64/UkwBFK7HcBI/AAAAAAAAG_4/hhyNqwuB9SE/s400/Screen+shot+2013-10-02+at+12.18.07.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for visiting The House of Marmalade.
Your presence is very much appreciated.</div>JuliaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08796157310429701087noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3872318647189678164.post-36094231474112464022013-03-20T20:26:00.002+00:002013-03-20T20:26:21.901+00:00A new blog on the blockBack in the summer I taught a lovely dress making class for <a href="http://darnitandstitch.com/">Darn it and Stitch</a>, the only sewing shop in Oxford who have their own sewing school called Pinworks. <br />
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I had 5 lovely students all from different parts of the world, as is typically 'Oxford'. There was Liere from Spain (hope I spelled that right), Veronica from Mexico, Maria from Italy, Nicola from Germany, and Claire from Oxford. <br />
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Only Claire had sewing experience, the others had none but had seen their grandmothers and mothers sewing while they were growing up, paid no attention (as teenagers are prone to do) but then as grown women, realised that sewing is not only fun, but a valuable skill, and they wanted to learn. We made a simple dress, and by the end of the 7 week course, I had 5 sewing junkies on my hands. A proud moment of indeed - for all of us! Unfortunately, this event is completely un-documented with the camera which is extremely unusual for me.<br />
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The girls have kept in touch with me and eachother, and have gone onto bigger and better projects and Claire has now joined 'the dark side' by becoming a sewing blogger! She's done some fantastic work. She's made several bits of clothing AND a quilt! This is something I haven't attempted yet. It would be great if you could support Claire and cheer her along. Her blog is called "<a href="http://iwanttobeaturtle.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">I want to be a Turtle</a>" - <br />
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Now Claire has set herself an enormous challenge. She wants to make 12 outfits between now and December. That's 2 per month. These are they:<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rXuqUjCOEFQ/UUoag7zOOeI/AAAAAAAAG3Q/jNKtJnbn6Nk/s1600/Screen+shot+2013-03-20+at+20.21.15.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rXuqUjCOEFQ/UUoag7zOOeI/AAAAAAAAG3Q/jNKtJnbn6Nk/s400/Screen+shot+2013-03-20+at+20.21.15.png" width="211" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://iwanttobeaturtle.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">Join her as she sews up her new wardorbe</a>!</div>
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<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for visiting The House of Marmalade.
Your presence is very much appreciated.</div>JuliaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08796157310429701087noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3872318647189678164.post-85425084038125477912012-09-18T08:46:00.002+01:002012-09-18T08:46:22.566+01:00Words AND Pictures this time!Oh lawks! I didn't realise my pics were invisible on the last post ... they show up in my editor .. anyway. Rectified. I put the pics up and you can see them now :)<div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for visiting The House of Marmalade.
Your presence is very much appreciated.</div>JuliaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08796157310429701087noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3872318647189678164.post-57187965160818927562012-05-19T19:05:00.002+01:002012-05-19T19:05:58.553+01:00Imitation is the best form of flattery<br />
For the last 2 or 3 years, this sewing blog right here has had the header "House of Marmalade". My regular readers will testify to this.<br />
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Mr Google also knows because if you search for "House of Marmalade", you get me ...<br />
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Now, according to Google Alerts, someone has bought the domain "houseofmarmalade' and seems to be planning some sort of fashion blog/shop ...<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RCM_1PVmuKs/T7fghL9IpOI/AAAAAAAAF_4/CeU0CVG_xhY/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-05-19+at+18.57.13.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="246" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RCM_1PVmuKs/T7fghL9IpOI/AAAAAAAAF_4/CeU0CVG_xhY/s400/Screen+shot+2012-05-19+at+18.57.13.png" width="400" /></a></div>
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Thank goodness I bought the domains for Marmaladekiss, the original name of this place.<br />
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<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for visiting The House of Marmalade.
Your presence is very much appreciated.</div>JuliaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08796157310429701087noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3872318647189678164.post-36117470952143086442012-05-15T19:15:00.002+01:002012-05-15T19:15:37.138+01:00Fabric giveaway WINNERWe have a winner! The Random Number Generator, generated the following:<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M8dOhJNwCY4/T7KcMMXUx1I/AAAAAAAAF_c/V7EdmfWYfXQ/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-05-15+at+19.10.31.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M8dOhJNwCY4/T7KcMMXUx1I/AAAAAAAAF_c/V7EdmfWYfXQ/s1600/Screen+shot+2012-05-15+at+19.10.31.png" /></a></div>
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This turns out to be <a href="http://buttons-and-bobbins.blogspot.co.uk/" target="_blank">Ginny</a> who picked this lovely fabric:<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.dragonflyfabrics.co.uk/spring-summer-fabrics/womens-fabrics/product-482.php" target="_blank">Esteval</a><br /></td></tr>
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Please get in touch Ginny with your contact details. You'll find my email address <a href="http://www.sewcurvy.com/corsetmakingfeedback.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for visiting The House of Marmalade.
Your presence is very much appreciated.</div>JuliaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08796157310429701087noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3872318647189678164.post-90094850518971646022012-05-02T09:30:00.000+01:002012-05-15T18:28:02.513+01:00Dragonfly Fabrics summer giveaway<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5cHDOy5P28Q/T3caYynMvMI/AAAAAAAAF7U/Y-zbVLX7KzQ/s1600/spring_air.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="88" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5cHDOy5P28Q/T3caYynMvMI/AAAAAAAAF7U/Y-zbVLX7KzQ/s320/spring_air.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">When I originally wrote this post, it started "Now the sunny weather is here". However, not all of us are experiencing sunshine are we? :/ Even the Hawthorn blossom seems to be hiding from the rain ... Nevertheless, we WILL get sunshine soon, so for the next few weeks it’s time to make some new summer clothes. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://www.dragonflyfabrics.co.uk/">Dragonfly Fabrics</a></span> are here to help with their great range of summer dressmaking fabrics. They are offering 2 winners their choice of fabric to get you started on your summer sewing projects:</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline;"><b>Prize</b></span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><b> - 1.5 meters of their chosen fabric from Spring/Summer fabrics </b><a href="http://www.dragonflyfabrics.co.uk/spring-summer-fabrics/childrens-fabrics/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><b>Children's</b></span></a><b> or </b><a href="http://www.dragonflyfabrics.co.uk/spring-summer-fabrics/womens-fabrics/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><b>Women's collection</b></span></a><b> or </b><a href="http://www.dragonflyfabrics.co.uk/fabrics-by-designer/anna-maria-horner/little-folks-voile/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><b>Anna Maria Horner Voile</b></span></a><b> for each winner. </b></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z-OM-zV99qc/T3caXYQXRkI/AAAAAAAAF7E/M20cCArCuik/s1600/home_images_7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z-OM-zV99qc/T3caXYQXRkI/AAAAAAAAF7E/M20cCArCuik/s1600/home_images_7.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">To enter this competition please visit the <a href="http://www.dragonflyfabrics.co.uk/"><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Dragonfly Fabrics website</span></a> and then leave a comment to say which spring/summer fabric or Anna Maria Horner voile you want to win. Closing date for the giveaway is 15 May, 6pm.</span></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">For a second chance to win you can pop over to the The Sewing Directory and enter there too, a winner will be picked from each site. </span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">If you can’t wait to get your hands on some of Dragonfly Fabric’s beautiful fabrics there is a special discount code for you – 15% off if you enter <b>Spring</b> at the checkout - this discount offer expires on 22 May so hurry over and start choosing!</span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">. </span></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.dragonflyfabrics.co.uk/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="124" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uTo7cpHa_Ls/T3caYa2bbJI/AAAAAAAAF7M/fQmwd3fH1EA/s640/logo.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px; text-decoration: underline;"><b>Terms & Conditions</b></span></div>
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<span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">This competition is being run through The Sewing Directory & on The House of Marmalade (Sew Curvy) blog, a winner will be chosen at random from each site. You can<b> </b>enter on both sites and have 2 entries in the draw. All entries must be received by 6pm GMT Tuesday 15</span><span style="font: normal normal normal 7.3px/normal 'Lucida Grande'; letter-spacing: 0px;"><sup>th</sup></span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;"> May 2012. Prizes can only be shipped to an address in UK or Ireland. </span></div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for visiting The House of Marmalade.
Your presence is very much appreciated.</div>JuliaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08796157310429701087noreply@blogger.com53tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3872318647189678164.post-22628731266427585242012-05-01T22:35:00.003+01:002012-05-01T22:35:37.199+01:00Vintage corsetsI've just done an interview with Sew Magazine about 'vintage' corset patterns. In the interview, I explained that a good way to learn all sorts of things about corsetry techniques, and fit, is to scale up antique patterns and make them up. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ntHA5OgeckA/T6BV9ezojRI/AAAAAAAAF-U/QQsg_D-J1vM/s1600/Scanned+Image+113100000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="156" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ntHA5OgeckA/T6BV9ezojRI/AAAAAAAAF-U/QQsg_D-J1vM/s200/Scanned+Image+113100000.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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Where does one find these patterns? In books. Namely, Corsets and Crinolines by Norah Waugh (and others), which is where this one was.<br />
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I scaled it up according to the scale given, and hey presto .. it fitted me! Which was a surprise as usually, antique patterns need much adjustment for the modern figure.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2xQexTx_P9Y/T6BWf5K43kI/AAAAAAAAF-k/aMiXvdQiFgg/s1600/IMG_2967.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2xQexTx_P9Y/T6BWf5K43kI/AAAAAAAAF-k/aMiXvdQiFgg/s320/IMG_2967.jpg" width="206" /></a></div>
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I did make a minor adjustment to the hips, in order to include 'fins' which I realise I should have padded in order to make them stand out more. Other than that, the pattern came together very easily.<br />
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It's made from a single layer of coutil on the inside, with boning channels sewn to the inside and the outer shell is made from double sided silk stitched together with lapped seams.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_m8c01Mgxww/T6BWmWrPUyI/AAAAAAAAF-0/z4fjGlWUa08/s1600/IMG_2977.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_m8c01Mgxww/T6BWmWrPUyI/AAAAAAAAF-0/z4fjGlWUa08/s320/IMG_2977.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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It's OK but still not the standard i'm aiming for.<br />
<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for visiting The House of Marmalade.
Your presence is very much appreciated.</div>JuliaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08796157310429701087noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3872318647189678164.post-91854763247020064132012-04-24T10:16:00.000+01:002012-04-24T10:16:17.046+01:00Fanning myself with all the excitement!Hello all!! Just popping my head up again from the mound of stuff I'm currently embroiled in. Details of which will no doubt unfurl as the year goes on, but for now, some are top secret, which of course means that they are ridiculously exciting!<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GJ3W0GsHpZg/T5ZvDTXtcWI/AAAAAAAAF-M/vs0VabrCe5c/s1600/IMG_3123.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GJ3W0GsHpZg/T5ZvDTXtcWI/AAAAAAAAF-M/vs0VabrCe5c/s320/IMG_3123.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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One thing which i'm working on is using my new workshop and studio to it's full advantage. It's a shame to have such a beautiful space available and not use all of it after all! So I am collaborating with talented corset makers, dress makers and hat makers, to bring you 'masterclasses' - one day workshops which will focus on the specialty areas of couture and millinery. I am going to be announcing the first one this week, and the class while being taught by a corsetiere for corsetiers, would also be very interesting for dressmakers who are perhaps making something very special this year ... a wedding dress or very special occasion outfit perhaps? Here's a little clue ..<br />
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In the meantime, I can also tell you that the lovely Charlotte Raine, of Charlotte Raine Corsetry will be teaching a workshop on how to make a burlesque feather fan at the Sew Curvy Studio on Saturday 19 May. The workshop will start at 1.30pm, tea and cupcakes will be flowing, as will the ostrich feathers! Go to Charlotte's web page to find out more and book a place - just click the picture!<br />
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<a href="http://www.charlotterainecorsetry.co.uk/historical_corsets/burlesque_fan_course.html" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="274" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ODczOVtv2FE/T5Zr8UNFV8I/AAAAAAAAF98/3NbTi4mNfxo/s320/droppedImage.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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And finally, if you would like to collaborate with me to present a Masterclass in your specialty, or if you would like to <a href="http://www.sewcurvy.com/corsetmakingnews_74141.html" target="_blank">hire my workshop space</a> which is in Oxfordshire, please do get in touch by clicking <a href="http://www.sewcurvy.com/corsetmakingfeedback.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</div>
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<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for visiting The House of Marmalade.
Your presence is very much appreciated.</div>JuliaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08796157310429701087noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3872318647189678164.post-41524429399950182052012-01-24T10:25:00.001+00:002012-01-24T10:25:30.468+00:00Bespoke corsetry & vintage style couture clothingFriends! I have managed to achieve my first aim of the new year which was to launch my new website by the new moon this month!<br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.marmaladekiss.com/" target="_blank">Here</a> it is</div><div><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.marmaladekiss.com/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="271" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BJr4Y4VLx_w/Tx6FyR7JAhI/AAAAAAAAFzI/i2L_BZRaKZY/s320/Screen+shot+2012-01-24+at+10.19.16.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">click on pic to go to site</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div><br />
</div><div>I'm very happy with how it's turned out and extremely proud of my work. I know that doesn't sound awfully modest, but I really have worked very hard to get to this point, and with the amazing help of a couple of individuals to whom I shall be forever grateful, I've managed to shape my idea of a future career into something concrete, worthwhile and deeply fullfilling. So I am very very pleased.</div><div><br />
</div><div>I'd love if you popped over for a visit and report back with your thoughts? </div><div><br />
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</div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for visiting The House of Marmalade.
Your presence is very much appreciated.</div>JuliaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08796157310429701087noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3872318647189678164.post-65889442320133782342012-01-16T17:21:00.001+00:002012-01-16T17:23:31.324+00:00A Very Happy New Year!Hello everyone! Happy new year to you all! I hope 2012 has started off well for all of you. I love this time of year, so full of promise and inspiration for the coming year.<br />
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</div><div>I thought I'd just pop up here to give you two bits of exciting news!</div><div><br />
</div><div>The first - what's been keeping me away from here. As I mentioned before, I'm working on a new website for my bespoke corsetry, accessories and lingerie. The website is nearly ready, so i've activated a live 'teaser' page for people to look at. I've designed a new logo and I'm furiously sewing up some stunning samples for show. Click below to see the preview the new <a href="http://www.marmaladekiss.com/" target="_blank">MarmaladeKiss</a> website.</div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.marmaladekiss.com/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="118" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zbn-Wuqdtak/TxRbOxLBLSI/AAAAAAAAFyk/NTJiSsc3skw/s400/logo-2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div><br />
</div><div>As if that wasn't exciting enough, I've just been informed that this blog is on the 'We love vintage blog' award <i>and</i> 'Blog we like best of all' in the Company magazine blogger awards! If you'd like to vote for me, please click <a href="http://www.company.co.uk/high-street-edit/your/style-blogger-awards-2012" target="_blank">HERE</a> or on the pic below.</div><div><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_295701509"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.company.co.uk/high-street-edit/your/style-blogger-awards-2012" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6CbRJsijgc0/TxRc5wEvR4I/AAAAAAAAFys/BFv0byHHD0E/s200/Screen+shot+2012-01-16+at+17.22.13.png" width="199" /></a></div><br />
</div><div>I'm so excited that I think I need a little lie down!</div><div><br />
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</div><div><br />
</div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for visiting The House of Marmalade.
Your presence is very much appreciated.</div>JuliaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08796157310429701087noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3872318647189678164.post-53343075477599595662011-12-13T11:01:00.003+00:002011-12-13T11:04:08.969+00:00And now for a short break<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nvQtrFUgmyk/TucqlwTx7qI/AAAAAAAAFxA/da26UsVOYek/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nvQtrFUgmyk/TucqlwTx7qI/AAAAAAAAFxA/da26UsVOYek/s1600/images.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>I've been blogging here for nearly four years and over that time, my life has changed quite radically for one reason and another. When I started blogging I was having a 'career break', meaning I had been bullied out of the best job I ever had, and was so traumatised by the experience that I was unable to return to 'the office' for another year. During that time I found the online world of craft and stitchers. I had always had a sewing machine and I was already making corsets and dresses, but over this rest period I spent my time crafting bags, and purses, and kiddies clothes along with keyrings, flags, bunting and and any other thing that could possibly be stitched. My fabric stash grew along with the space I needed to sew and by the end of that year I had become very proficient with the sewing machine, a passion had been born and my friends insisted that I do it for a living. There is no coincidence that in my spiritual life, I was working very closely with the element of fire which of course has everything to do with action, creativity, and passion.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QPW5D1GcO4Y/TucqnkWQZZI/AAAAAAAAFxU/zgIPhTQ3XcY/s1600/IMG_4879.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QPW5D1GcO4Y/TucqnkWQZZI/AAAAAAAAFxU/zgIPhTQ3XcY/s320/IMG_4879.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://marmaladekiss.blogspot.com/2008_01_01_archive.html">My first blog posts here</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>Well despite all that, I ignored the advice of my friends at that time and whilst still learning all I could about sewing, dressmaking, pattern making and corsetry, I did go back to the office, a lovely little part time job with a nice boss and friendly colleagues. I stayed there for just over 2 years and found out lots about technical things like photoshop, illustrator and online publishing. With all that knowledge I was able to build a small business of my own, <a href="http://www.sewcurvy.com/"><b>Sew Curvy Corsetry</b></a> and when that was all set up and running, the call of my beautiful Singer became too loud to ignore, and it was time to take the leap into self employment, which I did on 1 April this year. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TgiQSBc3dpc/TuctEEDSkMI/AAAAAAAAFxw/qffY3XZH3Z0/s1600/IMG_2559.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="211" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TgiQSBc3dpc/TuctEEDSkMI/AAAAAAAAFxw/qffY3XZH3Z0/s320/IMG_2559.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My book finished!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Sew Curvy is busy, but the main reason for me setting it up was so that I could eventually one day become a full time corsetiere. This summer was spent consolidating all the information i've learned over the last 4 years, honing my craft, researching everything I could about corsetry, finding techniques, and methods that work with my own style and ideals, dreaming up beautiful designs and deciding where to go with it all. As you know there has also been book writing which is now finished and submitted to the publisher ready for spring publication. Yes, the last 18 months has been intense, but oh so worth it!</div><div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bp81nea0Edw/TucsO6g3KgI/AAAAAAAAFxo/yRBwjbPKEvg/s1600/wintersolstice.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="221" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bp81nea0Edw/TucsO6g3KgI/AAAAAAAAFxo/yRBwjbPKEvg/s320/wintersolstice.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.paganspace.net/profiles/blogs/a-winter-solstice-tale">source</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>Long time followers of this blog, will know that I work very closely with the seasons, and so it feels important to announce to you as witnesses, that now, just under 2 weeks before the winter solstice, I'm officially stepping out of the blogosphere into a period of deep and intense creativity, until the end of January when the light grows stronger, and life begins to stir. The perfect time for new ideas and ventures to be born.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pvTwFk-V7oM/Tucw-4TNIhI/AAAAAAAAFyA/Y0B26RgKHDE/s1600/Retro%252BHappy%252BHolidaysAqua.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pvTwFk-V7oM/Tucw-4TNIhI/AAAAAAAAFyA/Y0B26RgKHDE/s320/Retro%252BHappy%252BHolidaysAqua.jpg" width="246" /></a></div></div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for visiting The House of Marmalade.
Your presence is very much appreciated.</div>JuliaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08796157310429701087noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3872318647189678164.post-89916002474592502272011-11-04T13:41:00.002+00:002011-11-04T16:41:40.700+00:00A little rant<div>This week on my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Sew-Curvy-Corset-Kits/118074462983">Sew Curvy Facebook page</a>, I wrote a 'status update' which I thought may be of interest to readers here too. So I have expanded upon it a little and added a video to demonstrate the problem.</div><div><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1624178899"><img border="0" height="204" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y8pwvmNkC18/TrPjYvq65VI/AAAAAAAAFto/INCBfHeSDJQ/s320/Screen+shot+2011-11-04+at+13.05.54.png" width="320" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10150292085202326&set=a.212389002325.144741.200805077325&type=1&theater">The corset on the left is by Electra Designs, the one on the right is a cheap chinese rip off. See what corsetiere Alexis Black had to say about it on her Facebook page by clicking here.</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><div>Corset design and image theft is a big problem in the independent corsetiers world. Individuals are constantly finding that their hard work has been ripped off and copied by unscrupulous Chinese factories, and to add insult to injury the images which they have worked hard to create and probably paid a lot of money for, are used to promote these knock-off's at ridiculous prices.</div><div><br />
</div>From time to time, these big companies from China offer me wholesale corsets at knock down prices. USD5.00 each to be precise. Yes $5 for a corset. <br />
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</div><div>This means that the manufacturing cost of these corsets is under $2.50 which works out at about GBP2.00 and €1.50. </div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CdMHhftmhMI/TrPh_aTRTzI/AAAAAAAAFtY/jHt1AUTF8uA/s1600/IMG_0731.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CdMHhftmhMI/TrPh_aTRTzI/AAAAAAAAFtY/jHt1AUTF8uA/s320/IMG_0731.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div><br />
</div><div>If that's how much it costs to manufacture a corset in China, can you then imagine the cost of the raw material - the busk, the bones, the fabric, eyelets and the lacing plus any embellishments? Perhaps we're talking $1.50? Which leaves less than $1 per corset for the people working in the factory!</div><div><br />
</div><div>These corsets retail in the West under brands such as "Corsets UK" and other similar sites, for between £30-100 (€40-120/$50-150). That's a heck of a mark up!</div><div><br />
</div><div>As I said, often the designs are copied from hard working independent corsetiers. The resulting fake product is not only cheap and nasty - literally, but the fit is ...well there isn't a fit. </div><div><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-95yxSGY6uv4/TrPiY2hteMI/AAAAAAAAFtg/BfLkGEoeGmg/s1600/IMG_0776.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-95yxSGY6uv4/TrPiY2hteMI/AAAAAAAAFtg/BfLkGEoeGmg/s200/IMG_0776.JPG" width="103" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Corset busks from Germany</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div>German steel is the best steel in the world, closely followed by British steel. Most professionals use German steel busks in their corsets. If you consider that one German steel busk fastner is more expensive wholesale than the cost of a whole corset made in China, you can easily see the reason why it's best to either make your own corset with quality supplies, or buy a bespoke or rtw corset from a reputable and independent corsetiere. Infact, the cost of making a quality corset can quickly add up to £50+ for the raw materials depending on fabrics used. The money you pay for a bespoke corset is made up of this cost plus the extreme care, attention, and time lavished on each piece by it's maker. A plain corset can take 20 and more hours to make.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aHT3skk8gNI/TrPnyW1QV_I/AAAAAAAAFtw/klaKuMyJlTw/s1600/redback.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aHT3skk8gNI/TrPnyW1QV_I/AAAAAAAAFtw/klaKuMyJlTw/s200/redback.jpg" width="125" /></a></div><br />
Once, I had a corset for sale in a shop where I happened to be working when a couple took an interest in the peice. They saw the price tag of £200 and dropped it with a nervous giggle and a look which said "whoever made that is having a laugh". I didn't say anything but I was aflame with indignation! If I was paid just £10 an hour for the length of time it took me to make the corset - not including the cost of materials, it would have cost much more! When you think that a good hairdresser is paid up to £50-60 an hour for their work, then please tell me why an equally skilled artisan is worth less per hour just becuase their work involves a needle and thread?<br />
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In corsetry, and other sewing related artistry, you really do get what you pay for so here's a little film from Lulu and Lush to demonstrate what I mean.<br />
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</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/7qdhdnj2Hh8" width="560"></iframe></div></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div></div><div>And to all ladies who sew - we must never underestimate or undervalue our skill and the care and patience it takes to produce beautiful things with it.<br />
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</div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for visiting The House of Marmalade.
Your presence is very much appreciated.</div>JuliaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08796157310429701087noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3872318647189678164.post-49645782326556208192011-11-01T10:16:00.000+00:002011-11-01T10:16:51.562+00:00Vogue 8701 nearly done, but ...Ok this time it wasn't all my fault. It's the Vogue jacket. It doesn't like my fabric. Too many seams perhaps? But also a few faults of mine. I'll walk you through it ..<br />
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<div align="justify"></div><div><span id="goog_1765391491"></span><span id="goog_1765391492"></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-on9wM7IuXDM/Tq_Avkig8pI/AAAAAAAAFsw/JWZIQUwa3ok/s1600/IMG_2507.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-on9wM7IuXDM/Tq_Avkig8pI/AAAAAAAAFsw/JWZIQUwa3ok/s400/IMG_2507.jpg" width="227" /></a></div></div><div><br />
Here's the lined and semi-pressed still unfinished jacket. It looks OK I hear you say ...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RQn3HFC1s80/Tq_Ay0Ob5mI/AAAAAAAAFtA/lap5BkRUEpg/s1600/IMG_2509.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4BcCLPcUpWE/Tq_AxCUpGzI/AAAAAAAAFs4/qGOa83FR584/s1600/IMG_2508.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4BcCLPcUpWE/Tq_AxCUpGzI/AAAAAAAAFs4/qGOa83FR584/s320/IMG_2508.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RQn3HFC1s80/Tq_Ay0Ob5mI/AAAAAAAAFtA/lap5BkRUEpg/s1600/IMG_2509.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RQn3HFC1s80/Tq_Ay0Ob5mI/AAAAAAAAFtA/lap5BkRUEpg/s320/IMG_2509.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> </div><div>Well, something has gone drastically wrong with the collar notches .. not really sure what as I followed all the instructions and both were OK until I trimmed them to get sharp points. Then (top pic) a large scoop became apparent on the left, while the right has a smaller scoop but a scoop all the same. I reckon it can be fixed with a little patience so no huge disaster...</div><div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M8GJXG8ZuVQ/Tq_A0DmAlqI/AAAAAAAAFtI/rhVayKaQ3YU/s1600/IMG_2511.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-M8GJXG8ZuVQ/Tq_A0DmAlqI/AAAAAAAAFtI/rhVayKaQ3YU/s320/IMG_2511.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RQn3HFC1s80/Tq_Ay0Ob5mI/AAAAAAAAFtA/lap5BkRUEpg/s1600/IMG_2509.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a></div>The lining went in very smoothly and I was very very pleased with the stitching - I really don't like working with slippy synthetics, but this lining was OK and didn't fray too much. There were alot of pieces just like the jacket so it was quite time consuming. The whole thing is stitched together via the outside edge, and turned through the middle where the back peplum is then constructed. This is the bit that remains unfinished.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-55ZfvZiDZzQ/Tq_A1dI9shI/AAAAAAAAFtQ/mXixVpoteIA/s1600/IMG_2513.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="309" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-55ZfvZiDZzQ/Tq_A1dI9shI/AAAAAAAAFtQ/mXixVpoteIA/s320/IMG_2513.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
BIG mistake number one - remember I shortened the back? That's fine. What I shouldn't have done was shorten the front. I'm not sure why I did this as it had previously taken a considerable amount of experimentaiton and brain wracking to learn that petite stature/big bust means shorter back length but longer front to accommodate "bust rise" .. why why didn't I remember this hard gained wisdom when I decided that the jacket was too long for me??? You can see the effect here clearly - the waist line slopes upwards from the back. While the untrained eye probably wouldn't notice, it's not a good look overall and doesn't improve the comfort factor of any garment!<br />
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Overall, I like this jacket but can summarise my experience quite succinctly as follows:<br />
<ul><li>Fabric for this design is far too thick - it's car upholstery remember? There are too many seams in the design which cause too much bulk with my car upholstery. Bulky fabric means these seams - however expertly they are trimmed, remain lumpy. </li>
</ul><ul><li>The light tailoring I did on the collar and lapels was probably not necessary because of the seams joining the jacket and collar - a tailored jacket is cut in one piece and therefore needs the tailors tape stays and the pad stitching to make it all bend and fold the way it is supposed to. This has seams to serve that purpose. I learned this while making this jacket!</li>
</ul><ul><li>The sleeves of the jacket were far too wide for the fitted design. I narrowed the sleeves without narrowing the armhole by mistake. It wasn't a problem (infact the sleeve setting went like a dream), but in a different garment, this may have made things very difficult!</li>
</ul>Although, I have to say, that mistakes are my reference library - it doesn't bother me that they happen because I learn so much from them, I don't mind telling you that I am a little dissapointed. I liked everything about this (proposed) jacket. The fabric, the design, the <i>buttons</i> (!). It will probably finish up quite nicely but I have decided not to spend any more time on it for the time being. Lots of reasons for this, but those are for another post, another day. I very rarely see other bloggers sharing their bad work .. is it just me who has "OMG I can't believe how much I can't sew!" moments? <br />
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</div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for visiting The House of Marmalade.
Your presence is very much appreciated.</div>JuliaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08796157310429701087noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3872318647189678164.post-9730064163127095802011-10-26T19:41:00.000+01:002011-10-26T19:41:10.965+01:00When you don't like what you sewHello all... it's been a bit hectic and I haven't finished my jacket yet ... nearly there - had to overcome my fear and loathing of sleeve setting, now it's just a question of lining and collaring .. it'll soon be done!<div align="justify"></div><div><br />
</div><div>In the meantime, I made a beignet. I had some black cord, and some faulty lining. Those were ok. But then I bought some buttons.</div><div><br />
</div><div>I bought cheaper buttons than the ones I really liked. They go with the lining and they look like peacock feather eyes. I quite liked them in the shop where I was as usual overcome with fabric loveliness and blind to the fact that I never wear blue, or green, or turquoise ... As soon as I got home, I realised that I didn't really like the buttons ...</div><div><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2I8yrWl2Xow/TqhS__6TSzI/AAAAAAAAFsc/rEtTnNgA01k/s1600/IMG_1149.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2I8yrWl2Xow/TqhS__6TSzI/AAAAAAAAFsc/rEtTnNgA01k/s320/IMG_1149.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The lining cost £1.35/m because the print is faulty. OK for lining a panelled skirt</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I sewed my Beignet in the knowledge that I had made a mistake with the buttons. Now I don't know about you, but when I know that I dislike a detail of something, my heart goes out of the subject but I press on regardless because I've spent the money and I don't like to waste, but I don't take as much care, and then things go wrong, and I end up with a garment that not only is unwearable, but that isn't 'me' and that i'd never wear in a month of sundays ...</div><div><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pL0qUGEDM3Y/TqhTEJI4Q_I/AAAAAAAAFsk/oqXt9PqzgRY/s1600/IMG_1152.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pL0qUGEDM3Y/TqhTEJI4Q_I/AAAAAAAAFsk/oqXt9PqzgRY/s320/IMG_1152.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">they're really nice ... just not 'me'</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div>So .. there it is, my Beignet disaster. A skirt which does't fit, which isn't made properly, which is bulky and heavy, and which has really horrible buttons :(</div><div><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gwyPaxdlvyQ/TqhS7dc2pjI/AAAAAAAAFsU/ySseCrmIUDE/s1600/IMG_1145.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gwyPaxdlvyQ/TqhS7dc2pjI/AAAAAAAAFsU/ySseCrmIUDE/s320/IMG_1145.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">you cant see, but it's all wrong ..</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div>I DO like the pattern though. I am not sure cord is the best fabric - it makes a very heavy skirt with all those panels. So I will make this again but with lighter fabric and better buttons. Like these ones which I LOVE but which are triple the price of the ones I bought...</div><div><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PcAg4KUFam0/TqhSyVFdm6I/AAAAAAAAFsM/U5xBJLsGtMo/s1600/photo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="195" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PcAg4KUFam0/TqhSyVFdm6I/AAAAAAAAFsM/U5xBJLsGtMo/s200/photo.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">50p each .. alot when you need 12 buttons but not as much as a wasted project<br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div>What happens when you find yourself not liking your project? Do you abandon for the sake of time and sanity? Or do you press on and then end up with something you don't like?</div><div><br />
</div><div><br />
</div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for visiting The House of Marmalade.
Your presence is very much appreciated.</div>JuliaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08796157310429701087noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3872318647189678164.post-75784650286634188612011-10-05T18:09:00.002+01:002011-10-05T18:22:48.948+01:00Red is the colour<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Yesterday a large envelope plopped onto my doormat. It contained a lovely package wrapped in tissue...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ql3wERzZXGY/ToyLzbYHOpI/AAAAAAAAFro/7Hz8e_xeL3Q/s1600/IMG_2479.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ql3wERzZXGY/ToyLzbYHOpI/AAAAAAAAFro/7Hz8e_xeL3Q/s320/IMG_2479.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Inside, was 2 metres of GORGEOUS <a href="http://www.dragonflyfabrics.co.uk/bio-linens/">bio linen</a> with some ribbons</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Isn't it beautifully presented?</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B-Lz50e0Qlc/ToyL3cvvqMI/AAAAAAAAFrw/ru9HhR0RVsU/s1600/IMG_2482.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B-Lz50e0Qlc/ToyL3cvvqMI/AAAAAAAAFrw/ru9HhR0RVsU/s320/IMG_2482.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Long time readers will definitely agree that this is <b>my</b> colour, however, it is such a nice fabric, I shall definately be investigating other colours in the range!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k2ZWGBFVtqM/ToyL15xgVtI/AAAAAAAAFrs/c1C5pbmcD0k/s1600/IMG_2481.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k2ZWGBFVtqM/ToyL15xgVtI/AAAAAAAAFrs/c1C5pbmcD0k/s320/IMG_2481.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It came from <a href="http://www.dragonflyfabrics.co.uk/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: magenta;">Dragonfly Fabrics</span></a>, (btw, have you seen the new range of <a href="http://www.dragonflyfabrics.co.uk/autumn-winter-fabrics/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: magenta;">winter fabrics</span></a> over there?) and I cannot wait to make something from it .. it's quite a nice heavy but soft linen which I happen to have been lusting over for months and wondering about the properties of. I think will be suitable for autumn/spring wear and I am currently fancying it in the form of the new Peony dress from Colette Patterns. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D36NpOBjGUQ/ToyNVQ7_cTI/AAAAAAAAFr0/T2cnMMG5NUs/s1600/1017-cover-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D36NpOBjGUQ/ToyNVQ7_cTI/AAAAAAAAFr0/T2cnMMG5NUs/s320/1017-cover-1.png" width="178" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">What do you think?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="justify"></div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for visiting The House of Marmalade.
Your presence is very much appreciated.</div>JuliaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08796157310429701087noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3872318647189678164.post-65180773443376591462011-09-29T19:44:00.000+01:002011-09-29T19:44:06.690+01:00Vogue 8701 ProgressSo i've done the pad stitching on the collars. It took a while as the collars are quite wide. Not only that, they are not one piece with the body as a tailored jacket normally would be, they are sewn onto the bodice as illustrated in the last post.<div><br />
</div><div>Pad stitching is easy peasy to do once you get the hang of it, and you easily get into a 'rhythm' which makes it much easier still. You just have to remember a couple of things. </div><div><br />
</div><div>Keep the collar folded (pref. over your finger) at the fold line</div><div>Keep the stitches small</div><div>Keep the stitches as even as possible</div><div>Each line starts at the opposite end to the last - this is what causes the chevron shape.</div><div><br />
</div><div>Pad stitching not only shapes your collar, but it also ensures that the collar lies flat and where it is supposed to be.</div><div><br />
</div><div>Here we have one side padstitched, and the other not. You can clearly see how the pad stitching has helped the left side lie flat while the right side is distorted out of shape because it is bouncing back upwards.</div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3uhL-7q1G_g/ToS7MUV47rI/AAAAAAAAFrY/DHoWP5YrtiI/s1600/IMG_2374.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3uhL-7q1G_g/ToS7MUV47rI/AAAAAAAAFrY/DHoWP5YrtiI/s320/IMG_2374.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div><br />
<div align="justify"></div><div>Here it is from the side - very unsightly!</div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cEXiiOXddfc/ToS7QAnBkxI/AAAAAAAAFrc/pkJu6dBG16E/s1600/IMG_2376.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cEXiiOXddfc/ToS7QAnBkxI/AAAAAAAAFrc/pkJu6dBG16E/s320/IMG_2376.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div><br />
</div><div>And from the other side ... even worse!</div></div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VYtD1l2MEU4/ToS7T_iOwVI/AAAAAAAAFrg/b65ph8j41yI/s1600/IMG_2377.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VYtD1l2MEU4/ToS7T_iOwVI/AAAAAAAAFrg/b65ph8j41yI/s320/IMG_2377.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div><br />
</div><div>Now complete, my collars are beautifully shaped as the pattern intended and nice and flat too.</div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kdem-4vEnfE/ToS7XdoVNLI/AAAAAAAAFrk/NogaUrEG8w8/s1600/IMG_2378.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kdem-4vEnfE/ToS7XdoVNLI/AAAAAAAAFrk/NogaUrEG8w8/s320/IMG_2378.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div><br />
</div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for visiting The House of Marmalade.
Your presence is very much appreciated.</div>JuliaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08796157310429701087noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3872318647189678164.post-24359706561187029732011-09-20T07:00:00.004+01:002011-09-20T07:00:08.581+01:00Vogue 8701<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I know, don't faint! I have actually started making something other than a corset! And this is it. Project 1 of 6, the Vogue 8701 jacket. I like it because of the open shawl type collar, short length and fitted style. It's a jacket I am making to wear with jeans or a skirt. Smart yet casual, and warm.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3_pm2w6UBt8/Tnei_1drLUI/AAAAAAAAFqo/GIfVuhKeY84/s1600/project1blog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3_pm2w6UBt8/Tnei_1drLUI/AAAAAAAAFqo/GIfVuhKeY84/s400/project1blog.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">click on pics to enlarge</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I made a toile from many different bits of calico - hence the strange "technicolour dreamcoat" look! There are 14 pattern pieces to this jacket which makes for some interesting details, namely some slanted panels and peplums which go towards creating the fitted look.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Fr0y5x7pLOw/TnejBrTFG8I/AAAAAAAAFqs/aPuV6gCC0SI/s1600/IMG_2442.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Fr0y5x7pLOw/TnejBrTFG8I/AAAAAAAAFqs/aPuV6gCC0SI/s400/IMG_2442.jpg" width="222" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The centre back section is made from 2 pieces, but I am not sure why, so I have cut the back panel on a fold for a less smoother look. I cut the size 16 which I think MIGHT be a trifle too big, but as it's a jacket, i'd rather it be roomy so I can wear a jumper or couple of layers under it. The only alteration I made to the pattern was to shorten it by 3cm. I did this at the front and back, but really I think I should only have shortened the back. For bigger busted 'petite' women (ie: under 5'4"), the front of the garment should be longer than the back to compensate for 'bust rise'. Consequently with this jacket, the waistline is not level but I've already cut it out - not a huge problem but I could have done better by being more patient!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--2h0MyyxlAI/TnejDqntOmI/AAAAAAAAFqw/_thnISpy95s/s1600/IMG_2445.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--2h0MyyxlAI/TnejDqntOmI/AAAAAAAAFqw/_thnISpy95s/s320/IMG_2445.jpg" width="227" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Here are the front side panels in progress. A peplum is a little floaty flap which kicks out like a large frill. The bottom section in this picture is the peplum, it works because it is made from a panel which has been slashed and spread giving it volume, making it wider at the bottom with shorter curved seam at the top. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f6d0vfO2M7g/TnejGDi4mNI/AAAAAAAAFq0/xZVaryJ3pi8/s1600/IMG_2448.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-f6d0vfO2M7g/TnejGDi4mNI/AAAAAAAAFq0/xZVaryJ3pi8/s320/IMG_2448.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">When this curved edge is eased against a slightly longer straight edge and sewn down, the peplum kicks out in a frilly manner. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R-LUy7xOzSQ/TnenHChoA9I/AAAAAAAAFrM/Oh-Z01SSkfk/s1600/IMG_2450.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-R-LUy7xOzSQ/TnenHChoA9I/AAAAAAAAFrM/Oh-Z01SSkfk/s320/IMG_2450.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The front of the jacket calls for interfacing, so I have used medium weight, woven fusible cotton. I am going to use some 'light' tailoring techniques on the jacket to make sure it has structure and strength but I'm not going to go overboard with the tailoring on this project because this is just practice for the next 'big' project, the Vogue 8333 which is a Claudia Schaeffer couture number.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oeZNP2wBFxs/TnejNtPyLxI/AAAAAAAAFrA/HSrzvX0gNBo/s1600/IMG_2458.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oeZNP2wBFxs/TnejNtPyLxI/AAAAAAAAFrA/HSrzvX0gNBo/s320/IMG_2458.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I basically want to make sure that this jacket is firm not floppy and that the collars stay in the right place, so I'm including a neck stay to stabilise the collar and ensure it lays flat against the chest as it should - this is particularly important for ladies with a bigger bust apparently.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LP7g7uA5sHc/TnejLT-TryI/AAAAAAAAFq8/wpD3WZs5b40/s1600/IMG_2454.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LP7g7uA5sHc/TnejLT-TryI/AAAAAAAAFq8/wpD3WZs5b40/s320/IMG_2454.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I followed the techniques in my <a href="http://www.amazon.co.uk/Tailoring-Step---step-Beautiful-Customised/dp/1845430573/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1316466298&sr=8-1">tailoring book</a> and employed a fell stitch to attach the stay tape just inside the seam allowance of the jacket collar.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I've also added a back stay to keep the jacket in shape.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FeZi70kWzAQ/TnejPd6C02I/AAAAAAAAFrE/xeELL-10gvo/s1600/IMG_2460.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FeZi70kWzAQ/TnejPd6C02I/AAAAAAAAFrE/xeELL-10gvo/s320/IMG_2460.jpg" width="214" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I really like the slanted panels at the sides which i've topstitched for extra definition.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w09TCvAYotw/TnejSMOmwBI/AAAAAAAAFrI/20ceaMlzGUg/s1600/IMG_2461.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w09TCvAYotw/TnejSMOmwBI/AAAAAAAAFrI/20ceaMlzGUg/s320/IMG_2461.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I'm using a 100% wool fabric which I <i>think</i> is car upholstery - that's what they said in the shop! It has quite a stiff hand and cost £5.00/m. I've used 2 metres which was only just enough, and will line it with plain black polyester lining. Next job is shaping the collar.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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</div><div align="justify"></div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for visiting The House of Marmalade.
Your presence is very much appreciated.</div>JuliaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08796157310429701087noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3872318647189678164.post-12372716695200154212011-09-16T14:47:00.005+01:002011-09-17T21:03:03.655+01:00A word on the comment boxThanks for your comments on the last post everyone :)<br />
<div align="justify"></div><div><br />
</div><div>To tell the truth, I'm a bit confused about comments these days .. When I first started blogging, you got a comment along with an email address to which you could reply. That doesn't seem to happen now, email addresses never appear with comment even in my email inbox and so I find it very hard to reply individually and am confused as to whether it's worth going back to the comment box to reply - I never check back for replies on the blogs I read - do you?</div><div><br />
</div><div>So I am really not sure about the ettiquette these days, except for what <a href="http://thecoffeelady.blogspot.com/">The Coffee Lady</a> wrote <u><a href="http://thecoffeelady.blogspot.com/2011/08/i-would-do-anything-for-blogs-but-i.html">here</a></u> - in particular her paragraph which reads </div><div><br />
</div><div>"<i>If you leave a comment, and Blogger gives me your email address, I'll email you back. Blogging wisdom says this is a big no-no. Blog popularity charts and PR people look for high engagement, which means everyone chatting animatedly in the comment box. Now I love comments - who doesn't? - and as you came over to my blog to find me, it seems only polite that I come and find you in return. (If Blogger gives me no email address I respond in the comment box, but I do wonder - does anyone ever come back to check?) A lot of my favourite bloggers do it this way, and I don't actually mind if that means my blog doesn't rank quite so highly. Some of my best blog friendships have been forged in my email account.</i>"</div><div><br />
</div><div>I couldn't put it better myself - I am still in touch via email and even Facebook, with many of the people I blogged with when I started but since blogger stopped giving emails, my personal correspondence with 'new' commenters has been disrupted. </div><div><br />
</div><div>So what i'm trying to say is this .. I will try harder to reply to the comments box whether I think anyone is listening or not!</div><div><br />
</div><div>And just to prove that, <a href="http://manyadventuresofbran.blogspot.com/2011/09/mood-board-tutorial.html">here is a tutorial</a> on how to do a mood board. It's a bit different to how I did mine - I used a combination of Mac software and Photoshop to get a quicker result - and there's a downloadable pdf to go with it!</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://manyadventuresofbran.blogspot.com/2011/09/mood-board-tutorial.html"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0ugrCAT9lMU/TnT8s80fqFI/AAAAAAAAFqk/B94ZIwaCiY8/s320/Screen+shot+2011-09-17+at+21.01.00.png" width="250" /></a></div><br />
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</div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for visiting The House of Marmalade.
Your presence is very much appreciated.</div>JuliaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08796157310429701087noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3872318647189678164.post-15890457074708493902011-09-11T20:29:00.000+01:002011-09-11T20:29:45.786+01:00My future wardrobeDo you ever have lots of good intentions, fuelled by certain inspirations and fantasies, and then find a year or so down the line that not only did you never get round to all the things you meant to, but your inspiration or intention has changed and with it your focus?<div align="justify"></div><div><br />
</div><div>And so "My future wardrobe" on the left is soon to be erased, to be replaced by "My wardrobe in progress".. It's different. More practical. Quick. Modern. As much as I love to cut my own patterns, i've been spending all my energy on corsetry. There's no more left for clothes design and frankly, sewing from patterns is relaxing for me, so i've stocked up via Vogue and Colette, and made a 'capsule' board to focus on basics which will go with the existing bits in my ready made wardrobe, which still fit me.</div><div><br />
</div><div>I have all the fabric already, now i'm going to use it - it's been hanging around for at least a couple of years! I really don't want to go out and buy more bits - so this entire project will be made from my current stash of everything.</div><div><br />
</div><div>I made a chart:</div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q3ydihOKCB8/Tm0Jam88fBI/AAAAAAAAFqY/7lJ8ycswdXs/s1600/style+sheet2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q3ydihOKCB8/Tm0Jam88fBI/AAAAAAAAFqY/7lJ8ycswdXs/s400/style+sheet2.jpg" width="282" /></a></div><div><br />
</div><div>And I've already started! </div><div><br />
</div><div>You see, I really really need some clothes - in the last year i've gone from a size 8 to a size 14 and back down to a 10 again ... I feel like Oprah Winfrey!! So i've started with a jacket. The Vogue 8701 with light tailoring, in preparation for Vogue 8333 which is a Claire Schaeffer couture number. I'll be blogging my progress in the next few posts, so stay tuned!</div><div><br />
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</div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for visiting The House of Marmalade.
Your presence is very much appreciated.</div>JuliaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08796157310429701087noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3872318647189678164.post-85239783924357522892011-09-10T12:39:00.003+01:002011-09-12T20:56:56.530+01:00And the winners are ...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Thank you all very very much for entering the Dragonfly Fabrics givaway and helping out with some extremely constructive feedback about Dragonfly Fabrics' website. Simon and Dorte, the husband and wife team behind Dragonfly are delighted with all your comments and will be working with your suggestions to improve your shopping and browsing experience. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">There were 91 entries (1 duplicate) - a few of which were 'double entries' from where some of you posted news on the giveaway on your own blogs - huge thanks for that too. </span>So without any further ado, the Random Number Generator has announced the following winners:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wV4jg-TR-Gk/TmtFrYUVLaI/AAAAAAAAFqI/HacrRiK245c/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-09-10+at+12.09.44.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wV4jg-TR-Gk/TmtFrYUVLaI/AAAAAAAAFqI/HacrRiK245c/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-09-10+at+12.09.44.png" /></span></span></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://pinnypinpin.blogspot.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;">Shivani</span></b></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;"> </span></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">1 Colette pattern of choice</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"> 5 half metres from Anna Maria Horner's collection of cosy flannels</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">3m dotty ribbon</span></span></span></b></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rEMlQOtKWJU/TmtHsARXPVI/AAAAAAAAFqQ/57ZU-rBRFQI/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-09-10+at+12.18.49.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rEMlQOtKWJU/TmtHsARXPVI/AAAAAAAAFqQ/57ZU-rBRFQI/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-09-10+at+12.18.49.png" /></span></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://dragonfliesandchickens.blogspot.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;"><b>Tracy</b></span></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;"><b> </b></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">1 Colette pattern of choice</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">3 x 3m dotty ribbons</span></span></b></span></span></div><div align="justify"></div></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7O34KygHlVI/TmtJqmAgu_I/AAAAAAAAFqU/1-BhcOk8icM/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-09-10+at+12.24.48.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7O34KygHlVI/TmtJqmAgu_I/AAAAAAAAFqU/1-BhcOk8icM/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-09-10+at+12.24.48.png" /></span></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://hazelnutgirl.blogspot.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;">Jacqui</span></b></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-weight: normal; line-height: 22px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">1 Colette pattern of choice</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">3m dotty ribbon</span></span></span></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;"><br />
</span></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Congratulations ladies! Please email me (julia at marmaladekiss dot co dot uk) with your addresses and choices, and i'll pass the details over to Dragonfly Fabrics.</span></div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for visiting The House of Marmalade.
Your presence is very much appreciated.</div>JuliaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08796157310429701087noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3872318647189678164.post-91293312741064675662011-09-02T11:59:00.001+01:002011-09-10T12:09:05.005+01:00Dragonfly Fabrics Giveaway!Ok dear readers, here's the news you've all been waiting for. The Dragonfly Fabrics giveaway post!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jEvzcDbY4dk/Tl-9pXHSGyI/AAAAAAAAFps/F0d7rgSwYqw/s1600/Dragonflysmprize.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="167" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jEvzcDbY4dk/Tl-9pXHSGyI/AAAAAAAAFps/F0d7rgSwYqw/s400/Dragonflysmprize.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
As I mentioned yesterday, <a href="http://www.dragonflyfabrics.co.uk/index.php"><b>Dragonfly Fabrics</b></a><b> </b>are a new internet shop and as such they are very interested to have some feedback about their site in order that they can effectively provide what you the customer would like to buy. <br />
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In exchange for this vital information they are giving away three gifts as follows:<br />
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</div><div><div><div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">1 Colette pattern of choice</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"> 5 half metres from Anna Maria Horner's collection of cosy flannels</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">3m dotty ribbon</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"> **<br />
1 Colette pattern of choice</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">3 x 3m dotty ribbons</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">**<br />
1 Colette pattern of choice</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">3m dotty ribbon</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'American Typewriter';"><br />
</span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KesXOeCdtxU/TmCTcUxPk3I/AAAAAAAAFpw/_uMx00A7hG4/s1600/colette.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KesXOeCdtxU/TmCTcUxPk3I/AAAAAAAAFpw/_uMx00A7hG4/s400/colette.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Three prizes, three chances of winning!</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Rules of the giveaway are:</div></div><div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div></div><div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">1: Entries must be via the comments box on this blog post</div></div><div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">2: Your entry must include some constructive feedback about the Dragonfly Fabrics Website and products offered</div></div><div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">4: If you post a link to this giveaway on your own blog, and include a link in your entry as well as your feedback, you will have 2 entries. That's a double chance of winning this stupendously fabulous giveaway! Go on, share the love!</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Entries will be drawn by random number generator next Friday 9 September.</div></div></div><div><br />
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</div></div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for visiting The House of Marmalade.
Your presence is very much appreciated.</div>JuliaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08796157310429701087noreply@blogger.com98tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3872318647189678164.post-79298389975391282662011-09-01T17:40:00.001+01:002011-09-01T17:40:54.976+01:00Sponsors and Giveaways!I've been waiting for the right moment to tell you all that i'm now taking sponsors here at The House of Marmalade! You may have noticed a couple of new buttons and badges over there to the right. Yes! I have 2 lovely sponsors. Here is some information about what they do:<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Jz5gSO82gqU/Tl-0dRrdfoI/AAAAAAAAFpk/iLUFw1G5QFI/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-09-01+at+17.34.21.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="114" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Jz5gSO82gqU/Tl-0dRrdfoI/AAAAAAAAFpk/iLUFw1G5QFI/s320/Screen+shot+2011-09-01+at+17.34.21.png" width="320" /></a></div><div><br />
</div><div><a href="http://www.thesewingdirectory.co.uk/"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">The Sewing Directory</span></b></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"> is the brain child of Fiona Pullen who launched it last March after realising that there was a gap in the market for a special </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: none; border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 21px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">on-line directory of sewing companies and services which are listed not only nationally, but regionally too. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: none; border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 21px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span> </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: none; border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 21px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">The directory therefore covers internet businesses who can service customers where ever they live in the world, and also, sometimes more importantly, the local and regional businesses and groups who people always seem to be looking for but who otherwise would find it very difficult to find the right sort of exposure for what they do. The Directory therefore gives information on where to find sewing services, supplies, courses and much much more, whether you need them in your town, or online. </span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: none; border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 21px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span> </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: none; border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 21px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">In addition to simply a list of businesses and groups, Fiona works very hard to make the site a valuable resource for all sewers and there are therefore lots of sewing and business related articles on site including interveiws, project information, reviews and tutorials. As if all that wasn't enough, The Sewing Directory has a vibrant and active</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: none; border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 21px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: none; border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 21px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheSewingDirectory"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Facebook page</span></a></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: none; border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 21px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"> which in addition to linking to some great sewing blogs and other online articles and snippets of interest, gives notice of </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: none; border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 21px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">weekly competitions and giveaways. Oh yes, you'll also find them on </span><a href="http://twitter.com/#!/sewingdirectory"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Twitter</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"> too!</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: none; border-collapse: collapse; line-height: 21px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="90" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U6UHqokx8v8/Tl-0c9n-LvI/AAAAAAAAFpg/kUEhhCeTLYk/s400/dragonfly.jpg" width="400" /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div><a href="http://www.dragonflyfabrics.co.uk/index.php"><b>Dragonfly Fabrics</b></a> are a new online store specialising in 'designer fabrics for dressmaking, crafts, patchwork and more". Of most interest to me personally is the lovely range of '<a href="http://www.dragonflyfabrics.co.uk/bio-linens/">bio linen</a>' that they have in stock, mostly in plain muted colours, but some with pretty designs which are absolutely <i>perfect</i> for summer dresses, tops, and skirts. Bio linens are so called because the linen fabric has been washed in a special bio-enzyme to make it softer than normal linen. </div><div><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NwWfBgmADj8/Tl-wHe1P-1I/AAAAAAAAFpU/X6elM8v5wZc/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-09-01+at+17.16.02.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NwWfBgmADj8/Tl-wHe1P-1I/AAAAAAAAFpU/X6elM8v5wZc/s400/Screen+shot+2011-09-01+at+17.16.02.png" width="386" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Loving the selection of baby cords! </td></tr>
</tbody></table><div><br />
</div><div>There is a whole range of other fabric types from corduroy to voile, flannel, fleece, jean, jersey etc., as well designer ranges from 'famous' designers including Anna Maria Horner, Annette Tatum, David Walker, and Tilda to name but a few. The growing range of goods offered also includes ribbons, trimmings, magazines and patterns from Colette.</div><div><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BfHQwdqe_1w/Tl-wI7nitWI/AAAAAAAAFpY/DcesXNGCXh0/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-09-01+at+17.16.34.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="278" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BfHQwdqe_1w/Tl-wI7nitWI/AAAAAAAAFpY/DcesXNGCXh0/s400/Screen+shot+2011-09-01+at+17.16.34.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some of the organic cottons on offer - lovely!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div><br />
</div><div>Tomorrow I shall tell you about the AMAZING giveaway that Dragonfly are having via The House of Marmalade. I think I can honestly say that it is the most generous giveaway I have seen for a while in Blogland, and I am hoping that most - if not all of my readers will think so too! </div><div><br />
</div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pbvIDOXBZuU/Tl-wKTPXrLI/AAAAAAAAFpc/KGmu-lHmJ1s/s1600/Screen+shot+2011-09-01+at+17.16.58.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="276" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pbvIDOXBZuU/Tl-wKTPXrLI/AAAAAAAAFpc/KGmu-lHmJ1s/s400/Screen+shot+2011-09-01+at+17.16.58.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jean fabric - I'm thinking Colette's new cigarette pants!</td></tr>
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</div><div>In the meantime, i'll give you a hint; Nip over to <a href="http://www.dragonflyfabrics.co.uk/index.php">Dragonfly</a> to do a little bit of window shopping in preparation for the big choose tomorrow!</div><div><br />
</div><div>Oh I do like a bit of suspense!!</div><div><br />
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</div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for visiting The House of Marmalade.
Your presence is very much appreciated.</div>JuliaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08796157310429701087noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3872318647189678164.post-68832407956623972252011-07-25T22:35:00.001+01:002011-07-25T22:36:45.180+01:00Competition results<div style="color: #666666; font-family: 'times new roman'; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans;"><br />
</span></div><div style="color: #666666; font-family: 'times new roman'; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans;">Well it was a hard job to decide the winner of the competition and there were so many entries and great ideas! In the end, I picked the most practical idea and the one which made me think "why didn't I think of that?" and still had me thinking about it a week later - often the most obvious answers are the ones which elude one's mind when faced with an urgent challenge!</span></div><div style="color: #666666; font-family: 'times new roman'; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans;"><br />
</span></div><div style="color: #666666; font-family: 'times new roman'; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans;">The most popular suggestion by far was that I make or buy bags drawstring or tote, to put the corset kits into. Although this would be a favourite idea of mine, it is unfortunately too time consuming for me to make the number of bags I would need, and too expensive for me to buy the number of pretty bags I would have to buy to get a good price. I think these ideas are definately something I might explore in the future though.</span></div><div style="color: #666666; font-family: 'times new roman'; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3OJ2edaoSsA/Ti3hPbwm2qI/AAAAAAAAFmU/qUljRcB7ACA/s1600/IMG_1213.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3OJ2edaoSsA/Ti3hPbwm2qI/AAAAAAAAFmU/qUljRcB7ACA/s200/IMG_1213.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><div style="color: #666666; font-family: 'times new roman'; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans;"><br />
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</span></div><div style="color: #666666; font-family: 'times new roman'; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans;">Other people suggested ziplock pouches, pillow boxes, paper bags, fabric wrapping or plain brown paper with old fashioned string - all lovely ideas, but not quite in keeping with my original theme which was to provide something which resembled an old fashioned corset box with layers of tissue paper concealing the delight within. I know the assumption is that Victorian women perhaps thought of their corset like a prison, but I don't doubt that when they received a new one, fresh, crisp and, if I know the Victorians, prettily packaged, in that beautiful but utalitarian way which they were famous for, it must have felt like a treat in the same way that a present of prettily packaged fine underwear is to us today - whether we have bought it ourselves or otherwise. In my kits, I wanted to capture that feeling, even though you're not actually getting a complete, ready made garment. </span></div><div style="color: #666666; font-family: 'times new roman'; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans;"><br />
</span></div><div style="color: #666666; font-family: 'times new roman'; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans;">And so the prize went to Aurora who said:</span></div><div style="color: #666666; font-family: 'times new roman'; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans;"><br />
</span></div><div style="color: #666666; font-family: 'times new roman'; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans;">"I would use your original idea, just use the brown box instead of black and substitute teal everywhere you have pink. I think brown and teal is a gorgeous, vintage-y color palate"</span></div><div style="color: #666666; font-family: 'times new roman'; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans;"><br />
</span></div><div style="color: #666666; font-family: 'times new roman'; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans;">She's right! I was so entrenched with my pink and black packaging, that I never considered adding teal to the colour mix, even though this colour does infact appear in my logo and branding - the little birdies!</span></div><div style="color: #666666; font-family: 'times new roman'; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans;">I will be introducing this new packaging over the next few weeks! </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans; font-size: medium;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 14px;"><br />
</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kEAttBAdN28/Ti3hVlqIKjI/AAAAAAAAFmc/PjoBbKwghmE/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kEAttBAdN28/Ti3hVlqIKjI/AAAAAAAAFmc/PjoBbKwghmE/s320/photo.JPG" width="235" /></a></div><div style="color: #666666; font-family: 'times new roman'; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans;"><br />
</span></div><div style="color: #666666; font-family: 'times new roman'; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans;">Thank you so much to everyone for entering the competition and supporting me with you ideas (and links) - all of which were brilliant!</span></div><div align="justify"></div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Thank you for visiting The House of Marmalade.
Your presence is very much appreciated.</div>JuliaBhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08796157310429701087noreply@blogger.com1